And just like that, fish are the new “it” girls of the jewelry world.
So, I was in Paris for the weekend—perfect, breezy Saturday afternoon, and I walk into this shop. And let me tell you, fish jewelry was literally everywhere. Tiny fish charms, bold gold designs—everything sparkling like it was made to stand out. Fast forward a week, I’m having brunch with my cousin, and she’s going on and on about this gorgeous Sandro top she has to buy when it goes on sale. And guess what? Yep, it has tiny golden fish on it.
Then, my sister, who’s always at her favorite store, Nach, on the early morning shopping grind, tells me she was chatting with the sales associate, and they ended up scrolling through the next collection on her phone. Guess what? Fish motifs—everywhere.
At this point, I’m like, are fish really everywhere? Because I hadn’t seen any of this on Pinterest or in my usual shops. Maybe it’s one of those trends that’s about to take off—just in time for summer.
So, turns out, golden fish are making waves in the fashion world. Let’s talk it.
Fish Out of Water—and Onto the Runway
Spring 2025’s runways were practically a deep-sea expedition. At Schiaparelli, Daniel Roseberry sent out a gilded brass fish skeleton earring, its tail seductively curling around a pearl. Cavalli showed off a swordfish pendant so fierce it could have leapt straight from the Mediterranean. And Van Cleef & Arpels? Their diamond-studded fish clip swam through a sea of sapphires—forty carats of pure, dazzling fantasy.
It’s not just the big houses. Indie designers are having a field day, too. In Tokyo, Mio Harutaka’s pink gold and sapphire fish earrings are the stuff of mermaid dreams. In Beirut, Selim Mouzannar is mimicking scales with round gemstones and enamel, creating necklaces that shimmer like sunlight on water. Even Dory, everyone’s favorite blue tang from “Finding Nemo,” has been immortalized in garnets and tanzanite by Parisian designer Marie-Hélène Taillac.
Why Now? The Symbolism Beneath the Surface
Golden fish motifs aren’t just pretty—they’re loaded with meaning. In Chinese culture, goldfish are a symbol of wealth, luck, and abundance. Koi represent transformation and perseverance. And in 2025, as we collectively yearn for a little extra luck and a fresh start, these sparkling swimmers feel more relevant than ever.
But there’s another current at play. As Dr. Colleen Hill, senior curator at the Fashion Institute of Technology, notes, the fish trend is also about environmental consciousness. With water shortages, ocean pollution, and the state of our seas in the headlines, these jewels serve as both a tribute to marine beauty and a subtle call to protect it. Some designers are even using recycled metals and ocean plastics, turning adornment into activism.
Artistry Unleashed: No Two Fish Are Alike
Here’s the thing about fish: they’re the ultimate muse. Unlike hearts or keys, fish don’t come with a rulebook. Designers revel in the creative freedom—think articulated segments that mimic swimming motion, bold enamel colors, and gemstone “scales” that catch the light just so. Audrey Cohen, founder of Audrey C. Jewelry, says it best: “There are no fixed notions when it comes to fish, allowing for greater artistic freedom.” Her five-part enamel fish necklace, studded with diamonds, is a testament to the complexity and whimsy these motifs inspire.
From Ancient Waters to Modern Glam
Fish jewelry isn’t new—it’s ancient. From Neolithic jade amulets to swinging ’60s skeletal fish earrings, these motifs have always swum in and out of fashion. What’s different now is the sheer variety: koi, puffer fish, swordfish, even squids and octopuses (which, as Stephen Webster notes, are much harder to design than you’d think).
“There are no fixed notions when it comes to fish, allowing for greater artistic freedom.” – Audrey Cohen, founder of Audrey C. Jewelry
The Maximalist Wave
This season, subtlety is out and statement is in. Chunky gold fish cuffs, oversized dangle earrings, and necklaces that practically slither down your décolletage are everywhere. The bolder, the better—because if you’re going to channel your inner sea goddess, why whisper when you can shout?
So, Should You Dive In?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a minimalist craving a tiny golden koi or a maximalist ready to rock a shoulder-grazing fish skeleton, there’s a piece for you.
